Abstract: "Predation games--games in which the player is actively encouraged and often required to hunt and kill in order to survive-have historically been the purview of male players. Females, though now much more involved in digital games than before, are generally encouraged to play games that stress traditionally feminine values such as socializing with others, shopping and nurturing. This paper argues that playing games that virtually simulate predation (which is true of most violent videogames) has many benefits for female players. Predation play teaches participants how to survive and excel in stressful, competitive, aggressive environments. To remain in the game, players have to sharpen their wits, learn to face fear, accept challenges and come back from defeat to play again. Negative effects are also discussed."